BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

THE privately-funded pedestrian bridge at Chung Hwa Middle School in Bandar Seri Begawan is expected to be completed in July, four months behind schedule.

In a recent interview with The Brunei Times, Chairman of CHMS Board of Directors Ong Tiong Oh said construction of the $770,000 bridge — built to ease traffic congestion — is entering its final stage.

Traffic congestion has been a long-term issue along Jalan Tasek and Jalan Berangan (road leading to CHMS), especially during the peak hours.

The bridge will provide a safe passage for students, teachers and the public moving to and from Jalan Kianggeh and Jalan Tasek linking Lapau (royal ceremonial hall) and the Radisson Hotel and Jalan Berangan.

The bridge is also expected to ease traffic congestion within the vicinity of the school. Construction of the bridge began in February this year. “Right now, the main decking is fabricated offsite. Once done, it will be hoisted on the bridge’s counter balance. Once that is done, the rest is pretty straightforward,” he said, adding that the focus will shift to the structural elements of the bridge such as the roof and fence.

“Everybody is so excited for the bridge to be completed. We are rushing them to finish but hopefully it will be completed by July,” he added.

Ong is financing the project as his way of giving back to the community and improving pedestrian and road safety.

Once the bridge is open, fencing barriers will be erected to direct people to use pedestrian overhead bridges to curb jaywalking.

Consultant Bolton Hennessey Sdn Bhd was engaged to carry out the design and supervision of the construction. The project was awarded to Pro Building Sdn Bhd in April 2014.

The first seven months — identified and diverted — affected services such as water, sewer, electrical, drainage, and telecommunications. Piling of the bridge was done after the relocation of services.

The Municipal Department, Department of Roads, Department of Water Services, Department of Electrical Services as well as Environment, Parks and Recreation Department had advised and assisted in the planning and construction stages.

The Brunei Times